Exercises for the soul
- Flora Duley
- Jan 18
- 2 min read
Updated: Apr 3
by Heinz Grill
This book is a series of practical exercises for conscious development of the ‘soul’ forces (Thinking, Feeling and Wanting). It introduces how this inner structure can be created with the training of good observation skills of objects (plants and Nature) and introducing thematic content which leads to widening creative potential, depth of relationship and connection to others and the world.
In the chapter 'Wisdom forces in nature and the signature of individual plants' Grill writes in German:
"Die Natur ist in der Vielheit und im Einzelnen ästhetisch. Ein Baum, mit oder ohne Blätter, dünn oder kräftig, ist immer ästhetisch...” (Grill, 2022, p.69)
Which translates as “Nature is aesthetic in its variety is and in its individual detail is aesthetic. A tree, with or without leaves, thin or strong, is always aesthetic, for perfect wisdom stirs through it as a creative force.” ( to note the book is currently in translation)
This idea inspired my sketch below.
The practice of the exercise does not need a special place - it’s economical. That's also what I like. Through practicing I experience the world again - it becomes new again; animated and differentiated. It inspires the wish to know and learn about the natural world and results in a closer relationship to the surroundings. This in turn is a pioneering way to develop drawing and painting skills that are not so technical heavy.
It has a calming and regenerating effect and so also is good for your Health - I feel that a substance is created in the process and the Will also strengthened. It's been great to practice 10-15 minutes a day with a chosen plant nearby. It's become an Important part of my day and for me in my Art practice and Art Tutoring it is also crucial that my relationships are not engulfed by projected emotions and my own subjectivity. These exercises also help with that as it requires the development of observation free and objective. It's like clearing the way to reconnect with reality and truer deeper feelings. A very beautiful book. It
Sellers: www.stw-verlag.de
(to note this book is currently under translation)
Flora Duley
